United Airlines Employees Strike for Better Contract

Friday, August 30, 2024

United Airlines Technicians Rally Nationwide for Stronger Contract

United Airlines Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) held rallies across the nation today, calling for a robust new contract from the airline. The technicians are seeking significant improvements in wages, enhanced safety standards, and comprehensive healthcare coverage. Despite United Airlines’ substantial profits and its reliance on over 10,000 technicians to maintain its fleet, negotiations with the union have been slow, with only one tentative agreement reached after two rounds of bargaining.

“United Airlines operates one of the largest fleets globally, generating billions in profits. Yet, these gains are not shared with the workers who ensure the safety of United’s planes,” stated Sean M. O’Brien, General President of the Teamsters. “United believes it can divide and exploit its workers by delaying negotiations, but the Teamsters are united in demanding a fair deal. Our members are standing strong, and we are determined to secure a groundbreaking contract.”

Chris Griswold, Teamsters Airline Division Director, emphasized the critical role of United AMTs: “These technicians uphold the highest FAA standards and risk their safety daily to ensure passengers have safe flights. United must acknowledge their indispensable contribution by agreeing to a contract that reflects the value of their work.”

Rallies took place at major airports including Boston, Chicago, Denver, Dulles, Houston, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco, Orlando, and Tampa. These actions follow a 99.99 percent vote by United Airlines flight attendants to authorize a strike, highlighting similar demands for industry-leading pay, improved healthcare, and stronger safety measures.

“We’re not just negotiating for the next five years; we’re fighting for a contract that sets the standard for the future of United AMTs,” said Martin Acosta, a United technician and member of Teamsters Local 769. “As veteran AMTs retire, United will need to attract younger technicians. Without a transformative contract, United risks signaling that it undervalues the work that keeps its planes and customers safe.”

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, represents 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.

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